2025 ICD-10-CM code F79
(Active) Effective Date: N/A Revision Date: N/A Deletion Date: N/A Mental, Behavioral, and Neurodevelopmental Disorders - Intellectual Disabilities Chapter V: Mental and behavioural disorders Feed
Unspecified intellectual disability encompasses a range of cognitive impairments affecting learning, problem-solving, and reasoning, alongside deficits in adaptive functioning and below-average IQ scores.
Medical necessity for diagnostic and treatment services related to unspecified intellectual disability is established by the presence of significant limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, impacting the individual's ability to perform age-appropriate tasks and participate fully in society.Severity and need for intervention are determined through comprehensive assessment.
Diagnosis of unspecified intellectual disability involves a multidisciplinary approach including psychological testing, assessment of adaptive behavior, and clinical observation.It may also involve input from educators, caregivers, and family members.Further investigations might be warranted to rule out underlying medical conditions.
In simple words: Unspecified intellectual disability means a person has trouble with learning, thinking, and solving problems.They also have difficulty with everyday tasks like talking, taking care of themselves, and getting along with others. This diagnosis is given when doctors aren't sure of the exact type or severity of the disability.
Unspecified intellectual disability (F79) is a broad diagnostic category in ICD-10-CM, characterized by significant limitations in both intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, originating before the age of 18.Intellectual functioning refers to deficits in cognitive abilities such as learning, problem-solving, and abstract reasoning. Adaptive behavior encompasses limitations in daily living skills (communication, self-care, social interaction) and practical skills necessary for independent functioning.The diagnosis is based on a combination of standardized IQ testing, assessment of adaptive behavior using validated scales, clinical observation, and information gathered from family, caregivers, and educators.Severity is not specified within this code, encompassing a range from mild to profound intellectual disability.This code should be used when more specific intellectual disability codes are not applicable, and further evaluation may be needed to pinpoint the exact nature and severity of the cognitive impairments.
Example 1: A 5-year-old child presents with significant delays in speech development, difficulty with self-care tasks, and challenges interacting with peers.Cognitive testing reveals an IQ score significantly below average.Further assessment reveals no specific genetic or neurological causes., A 16-year-old adolescent struggles academically, exhibiting significant limitations in abstract reasoning and problem-solving skills.Adaptive functioning assessment indicates significant challenges in independent living and social interaction skills., An adult patient with a history of developmental delay seeks evaluation for ongoing support services.The patient's cognitive abilities and adaptive functioning are evaluated to determine the level of assistance needed.
Detailed history, including developmental milestones, educational performance, social interaction patterns, and adaptive functioning.Standardized IQ test results and adaptive behavior assessment scores are essential.Medical records documenting any relevant physical or neurological examinations, genetic testing results, or other evaluations should be included.
** Unspecified intellectual disability is a broad diagnostic category; further investigation is often needed to determine the underlying cause and specific type of intellectual disability.Early intervention is crucial to maximize the individual's potential.
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